Have you ever heard of the PEP formula? It is a job search recipe that has led to success for many job seekers. If you combine it with a new spin on traditional job searching you might find it successful too.

First, start to think of job searching as “job researching”. The Toronto workplace has changed dramatically during the past year due all sorts of reasons and it is more important than ever before to research the employer you want to apply with, research the credentials needed for the position you are aiming for, and research the best method of finding work.

In the past, many job seekers could just go online and do a mass-e-blast mailout with the hopes that one employer would respond. This method is not as successful as it once was and can often only lead to disappointment and frustration. Instead, it is often better to research. For example, take the time to understand how AI technology has changed how employers screen out applications. In basic terms, this means that it is software that reads applications so you need to incorporate lots of keywords from the job posting into your cover letter and resume. 

It is also important to understand that there are more scams and false job postings online than ever before. If you see a job posting on a general job board that sounds like your dream job and employer, do some research before applying. Go to the website of the employer and see if the job posting is also listed there. If the employer does not have a website, then the job posting is probably a scam. If the email listed is a Yahoo or Hotmail address, the job posting is probably a scam. If they text you and you instinctively wonder for a second how they got your phone number in order to text you, it is probably a scam. Your first instinct is usually correct. Become a detective and research, research, and research.

Traditional job searching by applying to jobs found online can seem to take less time however even though “job researching” can take longer it can end in better results. “Job researching” is a combination of different stages including gathering information about the employer, analyzing the information to ensure you have the requirements the employer wants, and then making a well-informed decision. 

“Job researching” also includes keeping current with career trends. Learn what the high-demand jobs are including Personal Support Worker, Registered Nurse, Construction Worker, Secruity Guard, Correction Officer and Human Resources Professional with the CHRP designation. 

Once you have a solid understanding of “job researching” use the the PEP formula. PEP stands for people, essential tools and positive thinking. 

1)People

Applying to a job posting is the toughest way of securing a job interview. The #1 way is networking which means connecting to people. Employers like to hire people that they know so this means you need to attend events, conduct information interviews, find a mentor, volunteer at an organization that you eventually want to work at, and/or take an educational program that has a Coop or Internship component. 

2) Essential Tools

This includes:

• Cover letter and resume: for every job you apply to, have a targeted cover letter and resume that will pass the software that is reading applications. In your application describe how your qualifications fit the requirements that the employer is demanding.
• Contact information: employers need to be able to contact you so you need voicemail and an email address. Some employers will text you so you can include this option in your cover letter. Most of all, read and answer your emails every day on a constant basis.
• References: If an employer interviews you and wants to hire you will be asked for 2 to 3 local references. These should be direct supervisors who can talk about what you are like on the job. If you have never worked in Canada then you ask the supervisor at your volunteer work if they can be your reference.
• LinkedIn: many job seekers use LinkedIn to find work however unless you have an impressive LinkedIn profile, employers will not respond to you. Always keep your profile up-to-date with an eye-catching photo and background banner.
• Elevator Pitch: since the #1 way of finding employment is through networking you need to be able to talk to others about who you are and what you are looking for. This means creating what is often referred to as an “Elevator Pitch” or a “30 Second Commercial”. Employers like to interview job seekers who can articulate who they are, what they want and how they can support the employer.

3) Positive Thinking:

Employers prefer to hire job seekers who have an upbeat and friendly attitude so find ways to keep yourself motivated. Everyone has an invisible aura around them and employers like to hire people who are optimistic, approachable and self-aware. Find ways to be kind to yourself when you are unemployed and never let being in between jobs, reduce your values of self-worth and confidence.

In summary, put PEP into your job research by connecting with people, checking company websites, finding out who is hiring and what occupations are in demand, preparing all of your essential ingredients and tools, acknowledging your barriers and finding solutions. 

This article was written by Lisa Trudel, Career Specialist with Achēv at 100 Lombard Street in downtown Toronto. Achēv is funded by Employment Ontario. If you want to find out if you are eligible to use the services offered at Achēv contact Lisa at ltrudel@achev.ca